Czech Government Approves Energy Drink Sales Ban for Children

The Czech government approved a proposal on Wednesday to ban the sale of energy drinks to children under the age of 15.

This amendment to the Health Protection Act, backed by a cross-party group of deputies, aims to limit young people’s access to the high-caffeine, high-sugar beverages that have surged in popularity among youth.

Olga Richterová of the Pirate Party, one of the key advocates for the proposal, confirmed the government’s approval of the amendment.

She emphasized that children should not have unrestricted access to energy drinks due to the risk of obesity, high blood pressure, and other adverse health effects.

Energy drinks will face similar restrictions to those already imposed on alcohol and tobacco, requiring age verification for purchases made both online and in vending machines.

Under the proposed legislation, schools would be entirely prohibited from selling energy drinks, and they would also be banned from events targeted at children. Additionally, advertising aimed at minors would face tighter scrutiny.

However, some challenges remain regarding the law’s implementation. Following the cabinet meeting, Minister of Agriculture Marek Výborný (KDU-ČSL) noted that the government faces “technical and legislative issues.”

He pointed out that there is currently no legal definition for an “energy drink” in Czech law, complicating enforcement. Nonetheless, Výborný underscored the government’s commitment to protecting minors from the harmful effects of stimulants.

The lack of regulation around energy drinks has raised concerns. Proponents of the amendment warn that these beverages can legally contain high levels of caffeine and sugar, often mixed with ingredients like taurine, which are visually and flavor-wise appealing to young people. Long-term consumption, they argue, poses significant health risks, yet awareness among parents and children remains limited.

Richterová expressed hope that the legislation will maintain its core intent as it progresses to the Chamber of Deputies, where further discussions and potential amendments are expected.

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